Disabilities Minister Tony Piccolo welcomes passage of landmark NDIS

-Disabilities Minister Tony Piccolo welcomes passage of landmark NDIS

Disabilities Minister Tony Piccolo has welcomed last night's passing of the National Disability Insurance Scheme through the Senate, saying it will significantly change the lives of South Australians with disability.

South Australia was the first state to sign up to landmark reform which will revolutionise the way disability services are funded and delivered.

"This historic reform the will provide financial security, increased flexibility and a greater scope of services for people with disability, their families and carers," Mr Piccolo said.

"The South Australian launch will focus on children aged between birth and 14 over three years commencing in July.

"Approximately 5000 children across the State are expected to benefit from the launch which the South Australian Government has committed $20 million to over and above other disability funding.

"The NDIS is based on the same individualised funding model recently introduced in South Australia, providing people with disability more control over what services they need and when they need them."

Mr Piccolo said the South Australian launch will have a strong focus on early intervention.

"Early intervention can result in significant short and long-term benefits for people with disability. It can improve a person's development, recovery and wellbeing while helping them to have greater participation in community life," he said.

"Because South Australia is the only jurisdiction focusing specifically on children, we expect to have significant input into developing a model that responds to the needs of children living with disabilities across Australia.

"The focus on children supports the Government's Every Chance for Every Child plan aimed at providing young people with the support they need to live and thrive."

Community forums and focus groups with parents, carers and service providers have been held in regional and metropolitan areas and are ongoing.